Top 5 Best Electric Patient Lifts

Transferring patients safely and efficiently is a critical aspect of caregiving, necessitating the use of robust equipment to mitigate the risks involved. Electric patient lifts offer a mechanized solution, equipped with features like swivel seats and frames that enhance mobility and reduce physical strain on caregivers.

Our Top 5 Best Electric Patient Lifts list includes models that combine functionality, safety, and ease of use to support various patient care scenarios.

Best Overall Choice:

1) Molift Smart 150 Lightweight Portable Patient Lift View Product

The Top 5:

	5) Protekt Take-A-Long Folding Power Patient Lift View Product
	4) FGA-700 Bariatric Mobile Floor Lift View Product
	3) L400C Electric Patient Lift by CostCare View Product
	2) Medline Electric Hoyer Lift - Adjustable Base and 6-Point Cradle View Product
	1) Molift Smart 150 Lightweight Portable Patient Lift View Product

Features to Consider

• Portability: Portable electric lifts can move from room to room, helping a bedridden patient get up and out of bed to enjoy time in the rest of the house. These lifts offer flexibility that fixed patient lifts and manual patient lifts don’t.
• Weight Capacity: Weight capacity varies, so you want to make sure you have one sturdy enough to meet your needs. The best electric patient lifts can accommodate users with upper limits between 340 and 700 pounds. Specialized bariatric models are also available to ensure the safety of larger-framed patients and their caregivers during transfers.
• Range of Lift Height: With the potential need of having to reach low enough to lift patients who have fallen on the floor and high enough to accommodate a high mattress height of up to 66 inches, the electric lift you choose should fit the parameters of your own situation.
• Emergency Shut-Off/Manual Override: An electric patient lift should have a stop-lifting control in an emergency, and a manual override should be easy to access during a power loss.
• Scale: Although this is not required for a patient lift to benefit caregivers and users, a model with a built-in scale is a convenient option for weighing patients who otherwise would have difficulty standing on a scale.
• Slings: Specialized slings include disposable, padded, stretcher-style, divided leg, mesh, commode, and full-body slings. Determining what will work best for your situation and what models accommodate the sling or slings you need will help you decide which electric patient lift is your best option.

How do you lift a patient off the floor with a patient lift?

The patient is turned on one side. The sling is placed flat on the floor next to the patient; then, the patient is rolled back onto the sling. The sling loops are placed securely on the lift’s hooks, and the lift arm raises the patient in the sling.

Does Medicare pay for patient lifts?

If a doctor prescribes a patient lift for home use, Medicare Part B will cover it as durable medical equipment. Visit Medicare for more information.

How do you transfer a patient using a patient lift?

Patient lifts are used for more than getting a patient in and out of bed or off the floor after a fall. They can also be used to get in and out of cars, chairs, or commodes. Be sure to review the many sling options for your specific needs.

The basic operation is to have the appropriate sling positioned around the patient. Roll the lift into position with the legs of the base set wide and locked. With the lift lowered into position, the sling loops are attached to the lift, the wheel locks are disengaged, and the lifting operation is initiated.

The lift is moved with the patient cradled safely in the sling. To complete the transfer, the lift is positioned with its wheels locked, the boom arm is lowered, the patient is properly positioned, and the sling disengages from the lift’s hooks. The lift is rolled out of the way, and the sling is slid out from under the patient.

The Top 5

#5 Protekt Take-A-Long Folding Power Patient Lift

Protekt Take-A-Long Folding Power Patient Lift View Product

Securing our number 5 spot, the Protekt Take-A-Long Folding Power Patient Lift from Proactive Medical Products combines safe, smooth patient transfers with unparalleled convenience and portability. Designed for dynamic adjustability, this lift is ideal for caregivers needing a reliable solution both at home and on the go. Its lightweight construction and ability to fold compactly make it perfect for travel, fitting easily into car trunks or being stored away in small spaces. Equipped with a high-capacity rechargeable battery, it ensures continuous power for multiple lifts, and the built-in battery gauge with a low battery alarm keeps users informed of power status. This lift's design emphasizes ease of use and patient comfort, making it a versatile tool for various transfer needs. The Protekt Take-A-Long Folding Power Patient Lift is a top choice for those seeking a blend of safety, convenience, and adaptability in patient mobility solutions.

Features and Benefits

• Easily folds for storage and travel
• Ensures a reliable power supply for multiple lifts, complete with a quick recharge cycle
• 2-point spreader bar that accommodates various sling types and transfer positions
• Supports up to 400 pounds, ensuring robust support for most patients

Customer feedback

Pros

• Customers appreciate its straightforward operation
• The lift is both strong and stable, offering dependable performance
• Customers highlight its solid build and quick-folding capability
• Can perform a variety of transfers, from seated and lying to reclined, enhancing its utility

Cons

• Some users may find there's a learning curve to utilize all its features optimally

#4 Bariatric Mobile Floor Lift Model FGA-700

FGA-700 Bariatric Mobile Floor Lift View Product

Claiming the number 4 spot on our list, the Bariatric Mobile Floor Lift Model FGA-700 by Handicare stands out for its robust design and user-friendly features. Specifically engineered for bariatric patients who often require more extensive mobility assistance, this lift supports up to 700 pounds and is versatile enough for safe transfers and gait training therapy sessions. Its lightweight aluminum construction, equipped with double support bars and a wide lifting range, ensures it can easily move patients from chairs, baths, low beds, or even the floor.

The lift's full 360-degree turning capability, controlled by an integrated carry bar, allows for precise positioning without obstructing the equipment. Its height adjusts among three settings to accommodate different needs. The control box manages operations and provides diagnostic and usage data that can be monitored via computer, enhancing its functionality. Equipped with dual-wheel casters and easy-to-operate rear brakes, it offers exceptional maneuverability and safety.

This heavy-duty, multi-purpose electric patient lift is ideal for home use, providing caregivers and patients with confidence in its strength, versatility, and reliability. Additionally, including a walking sling adds further value, making it an indispensable tool for those incorporating gait training into their care regimen. The FGA-700 is designed to meet the highest safety, comfort, and durability standards, making it an excellent choice for supporting bariatric patients.

Features and Benefits

• Can accommodate patients weighing up to 700 pounds
• Easy to get under furniture and close to the patient
• Serves multiple purposes as a transfer and gait training device
• Height adjustable
• Can transfer patients from the floor
• Customer Feedback

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Can be used with seated and standing positions
• Confidence in lifting patients from low bed or floor
• Easy to move
• Don’t have to worry about contact with the lifting arm

Cons

• Walking sling only for users up to 5’9”
• Can only be cleaned with alcohol

#3 L400C Electric Patient Lift

L400C Electric Patient Lift by CostCare View Product

Securing the number 3 spot on our list, the L400C Electric Patient Lift by CostCare is a standout choice for providing secure and comfortable patient transfers in institutional and residential settings. This lift is designed to safely support patients weighing up to 450 pounds, with a height range that facilitates varied transfers, including from the floor. Its adjustable-width base, smooth double-roller front casters, and lockable back casters allow easy maneuverability around furniture and through narrow doorways. Battery-powered for maximum reliability and ease of use, the L400C enhances caregiver efficiency while minimizing the risk of injuries associated with manual transfers. With its padded 6-point hanger bar that swivels 360 degrees, this lift offers flexible positioning options to maximize patient comfort and caregiver convenience.

Features and Benefits

• The padded 6-point hanger bar swivels 360 degrees
• Battery-powered operation with direct or stand-alone charging options ensures the lift is always ready for use
• Low, adjustable-width base with double-roller casters that easily navigate tight spaces
• An infinite-grip push handle and adjustable base facilitate ease of movement

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Users appreciate the lift's great performance and perfect height adjustability
• Customers report that the lift was easy to assemble and operate
• Customers commend the robust build quality
• Designed to perform a wide range of transfers effectively

Cons

• Some users may initially find the array of features and controls daunting
• Assembly is needed, which might be challenging for some
• Adjustable base requires room to expand and contract
• The lift's substantial build makes it heavier and less portable than some lighter models

#2 Medline Electric Hoyer Lift

Medline Electric Hoyer Lift - Adjustable Base and 6-Point Cradle View Product

Earning the number 2 spot on our list, the Electric Patient Lift with Power-Adjustable Base by Medline is a top-tier choice for handling patients with severe mobility limitations. Available in 450- or 700-pound capacity options, it accommodates patients of various sizes. This lift is celebrated for its versatility and safety, consistently appearing on numerous "best of" lists, including those for patient safety devices and Hoyer lifts.

The design of this lift distributes weight broadly, enhancing both stability and comfort for the patient. It is particularly beneficial when caring for larger patients, as it minimizes the physical effort required from caregivers. The power-adjustable base slides easily under furniture, and the lift operates with a remote control. It efficiently and safely lifts patients with six sling anchor points. Its removable battery charges from a standard outlet and delivers up to 100 lifts per charge, with an optional additional charging station available for continuous use.

This lift reliably raises patients from the floor to an elevated position, safeguarding against falls and reducing caregiver strain. Its user-friendly design and robust safety and comfort features make the Electric Patient Lift by Medline a standout choice, providing dependable and comfortable patient transfers every time.

Features and Benefits

• Slides easily under furniture.
• The power-adjustable base accommodates patient positioning.
• Fast actuator keeps lifts efficient.
• 6-point cradle for wide-weight distribution.
• Easy-to-operate controls.

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Two heavy-duty options
• Makes transfers faster than other models
• Can lift even heaviest patients from the floor without straining caregiver
• Height adjustable for customized patient experience

Cons

• Battery operated only, plugs in just to charge, won’t operate while plugged in
• Some assembly required

#1 Molift Smart 150 Lightweight Portable Patient Lift

Molift Smart 150 Lightweight Portable Patient Lift View Product

Claiming the top spot on our list, the Molift Smart 150 Patient Lift by R82 stands out primarily for its exceptional portability. This lift can be easily disassembled into two pieces without needing tools, making it perfect for transport. It even comes with its own travel case and is TSA-approved for air travel, ensuring it can accompany caregivers and patients wherever they go.

The Molift Smart 150's compact design allows it to maneuver smoothly in tight spaces. It features a foldable frame that doesn’t require disassembly for storage, easily fitting under beds or in closets. Despite its compact size, it offers a broad lifting range from the floor, and its 4-point sling bar maintains correct patient posture during transfers. Additionally, the legs of this electric patient lift are manually adjustable, adding to its versatility.

With the strength to lift patients up to 330 pounds, the Molift provides safe and comfortable transfers without any physical strain on the caregiver. It includes a charger and a rechargeable battery that maintains a charge for up to 3 hours. The lift also notifies when maintenance is due, and a built-in lifting counter tracks usage over time, aiding in diagnostics and annual inspections. Equipped with manual lowering functions and a safety stop feature, it ensures safety even during power outages.

Perfect for caregivers who need a reliable lifting solution in multiple locations, the Molift Smart 150 combines lightweight construction with sturdy capability and a comprehensive set of features, making it the unrivaled leader in our roundup of electric patient lifts.

Features and Benefits

• Simplifies almost any lift
• Standard 4-point sling bar can be used with a wide range of slings
• Generous lifting height includes easy patient lifting from the floor
• Legs are easily adjustable
• Power operation that comes with a battery and charger

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Easily adjustable legs make it better to accommodate patients.
• Simple to monitor power operation
• Does not require tools to assemble or disassemble
• The aluminum and steel frames are lightweight and strong
• Fits compactly into the back of a vehicle for trips

Cons

• Does not accommodate the largest of patients.
• Limited to only using their slings.

Final Thoughts

In this review of the Top 5 Best Electric Patient Lifts, we’ve explored a variety of models that ensure safety, efficiency, and ease of use in patient transfers. Each lift we’ve featured is designed with specific strengths, from portability and weight capacity to ease of maneuverability and ergonomic benefits, ensuring there's an option that meets the unique needs of different caregiving environments.

Our top picks, particularly the Molift Smart 150 Patient Lift by R82 which claims the #1 spot, stand out for their exceptional features. The Molift Smart 150 is distinguished by its unparalleled portability. Easily disassembled without tools and light enough to be handled by one person, it comes with its own travel case and is TSA-approved for air travel. Its compact design does not compromise functionality, offering a broad lifting range and maintaining correct patient posture with its 4-point sling bar. These features make the Molift Smart 150 an indispensable tool for caregivers needing flexibility across various settings.

For those looking to dive deeper into patient lift dynamics and explore patient mobility solutions, visiting Caregiver University is highly recommended. CGU provides further educational resources and insights that can assist in making informed decisions about the best equipment to support patient care effectively.

Choose wisely, as the right electric patient lift can significantly enhance the quality of care, reduce caregiver strain, and improve the overall safety and comfort of patient handling procedures.